Munoz sends Colombia into World Cup last 32 with win over DR Congo

Daniel Munoz fired Colombia into the World Cup Round of 32 on Tuesday, sealing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo. The decisive goal came in the 76th minute, finally breaking the resilience of DR Congo's goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who had delivered an inspired performance throughout the match, thwarting numerous Colombian attempts.

Colombia dominated possession and created a plethora of chances, with James Rodriguez marking his 10th World Cup appearance by testing Mpasi early on. Winger Luis Diaz also came close to opening the scoring in the 18th minute, showcasing skillful control and a powerful shot that was ultimately saved. Despite registering 15 shots before halftime, including six on target, Colombia could not find the net until Munoz's late strike.

The African side, DR Congo, showed flashes of threat through Edo Kayembe, Cedric Bakambu, and Yoane Wissa, but lacked the clinical finishing to capitalize on their opportunities. They had entered the match buoyed by an opening 1-1 draw with Portugal, but ultimately fell short against a determined Colombian side.

Colombia's victory, coupled with Portugal's 5-0 win over Uzbekistan earlier in the day, guarantees their progress to the knockout stage. They now sit on six points from two matches, with their final group game against Portugal serving as a formality. DR Congo, meanwhile, remains on one point and faces a must-win scenario against Uzbekistan to maintain any chance of advancing.

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The African side, buoyed by their opening 1-1 draw with Portugal, threatened sporadically through Edo Kayembe, Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa but lacked a clinical finish.